Classic New Zealand

Cruise Auckland Harbour on an America's Cup winner, learn traditional Maori flax weaving. Swim with dolphins or take to the skies in a hot air balloon, helicopter or private plane. Have a personal sommelier introduce you to the wines of the region of Hawke's Bay. Explore the town of Rotorua and its surrounding area where you will be constantly reminded of the forces of nature with steam rising from pathways and pools of bubbling mud. Experience Maori culture on Mokoia Island, New Zealand's largest Inland Island Wildlife Sanctuary located in the centre of Lake Rotorua and home to the kiwi, saddleback and weka.

Days 1 to 2 - London/New Zealand
Board your overnight flight to New Zealand with Air New Zealand.

Day 3 - Auckland
Arrive in Auckland, the 'City of Sails', collect your rental car and check-in to the Langham Hotel. The morning is free to relax. In the afternoon you will be introduced to the highlights of Auckland.

Day 4 - Auckland/Rotorua
Enjoy a scenic drive (230kms/3 1/2 hours) to Rotorua where you will arrive at Treetops Lodge and Estate, nestled amidst 2,500 acres of native forest, for a two night stay.

Day 5 - Rotorua
A day to choose from helicopter flights, golf, trout fishing, canoeing or cruising the waters of Lake Tarawera. Other sights include the 'Buried Village' of Te Wairoa, or even sheep shearing demonstrations at the Agrodome.

Day 6 - Rotorua/Queenstown
After a free morning, drive to Rotorua airport for your flight to the South Island and Queenstown, where your home for the next three nights is Azur Lodge.

Day 7 - Queenstown
After breakfast, set off for the spectacular flight to Fiordland National Park, the largest in New Zealand, where you take a cruise of Milford Sound. Surrounded by towering peaks, lush vegetation and dramatic waterfalls, this is one of the Southern Hemisphere's greatest highlights. Return to Azur Lodge by scenic flight.

Day 8 - Queenstown
A day free to relax. The alternatives are almost unlimited, and include driving Skipper's Canyon by 4WD, whitewater rafting on the Kawarau River, playing golf or fly fishing, though most popular is a jetboat safari of the Dart River.

Day 9 - Queenstown/Christchurch
This morning drive from Azur Lodge to Queenstown airport for your flight to Christchurch, where you will embark on a guided city tour and enjoy a punt on the River Avon. Check-in to the George Hotel for a two night stay.

Day 10 - Christchurch
A full day to explore the Botanical Gardens of Christchurch or perhaps go whale watching in Kaikoura.

Day 11 - Christchurch/London
The morning is free to enjoy the activities of your choice, before driving to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK, arriving in London on day 12.

Pricing
At A&K all of our journeys are individually tailored to suit your needs and timescale. However, as a guide, this 11 day luxury holiday in New Zealand will cost from £4,295 per person based on two adults sharing with flights from the UK and subject to availability.